Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: PECULIUM
Definition: Peculium is a word from ancient Roman law. It means money or property that the head of a family would give to their son or slave. The son or slave could use this money for their living expenses or for business. It was like their own personal money that they could use as they wanted.
PECULIUM
Peculium is a term used in Roman law to refer to property or money given by the head of a household to a son or slave. This property or money is meant to be used at the discretion of the recipient for living expenses or business transactions. It is property that is at the disposal of the slave or son-in-power.
An example of peculium would be a father giving his son a sum of money to start a business or pay for his living expenses. Another example would be a master giving his slave a portion of his earnings to use as he sees fit.
These examples illustrate the concept of peculium because they show how the head of a household can give property or money to a subordinate to use as they wish. The recipient has control over the peculium and can use it for their own benefit, whether that be for personal expenses or to invest in a business venture.